Despite doubts about its capabilities, the US led the growth in the value of weapons imported into Europe, which rose from around €3.1 billion for the 2019–2021 era to €7.9 billion for the 2022–2024 period among the 27 member states, according to trade figures.
During the Friday morning introduction of the research ‘Fit for war by 2030?’, Bruegel’s senior scholar Guntramm Wolff stated that Europe had the industrial production capacity to boost the manufacture of tanks and infantry fighting vehicles. “The more advanced weapons systems, where we have limited capabilities, are more concerning,” he continued.
In comparison to the total demand, Wolff stated, “There has been some increase in various systems—artillery in particular has grown substantially—but these increases are still relatively small.”
For instance, according to the analysis, Europe possessed 1,627 main combat tanks in 2023; but, depending on the situation, estimates indicate that 2,359 to 2,920 will be required in the upcoming years. In 2024, stock levels of air defence systems such the Patriot and SAMP/T were 35, much below the 89 needed.
The authors urge national governments and EU officials to make significant expenditures on research and development crucial, particularly given Europe’s inferior defence R&D compared to its international rivals.
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